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Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cirrhosis. Its aim is to stop the progress of the cirrhosis, reversing (to whatever extent possible) the damage that has already occurred, and treating complications that are disabling or life-threatening. Stopping or reversing the process requires removal of the cause, as in the following cases:
In alcoholic cirrhosis: abstinence from alcohol and intake of an adequate wholesome diet.
In cirrhosis caused by viral hepatitis: use of experimental approaches that include the use of drugs to improve immune responses to viral infection (interferon) or to help destroy the virus (anti-viral compounds).
In certain types of cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis: corticosteroids are indicated.
In cirrhotic patients with jaundice: use of supplemental fat soluble vitamins may be helpful.
In Wilson's disease: removal of excessive copper.
In hemochromatosis: removal of excess iron.
For patients with severe cirrhosis, a liver transplant may be life-saving. |